An Imperfect Engagement by Alyssa Drake & Alyssa Drake

Author:Alyssa Drake & Alyssa Drake
Language: eng
Format: epub
Publisher: Seductive Quill LLC

Chapter 15

Day 5

“Samantha, in an effort to divert your focus from your involuntary imprisonment, I have invited your cousin for tea this afternoon.” Wilhelmina forced a tired smile at Sam over a plate of steaming eggs the next morning.

She had been screaming again. The maid told her this morning when she came to stoke the fire in Lord Westwood’s chamber, “We could hear you in the servant’s quarters, Miss.”

“I look frightful.” Sam protested, indicating the slowly healing bruises on her face.

“Alana has seen worse. She has brothers,” Edward said from the head of the table. “Your condition will not surprise her in the slightest. Aidan already informed her of Franklin’s violent actions against you, and she is concerned for your well-being.”

As much as Sam detested any social activity, she enjoyed Alana’s company and was extremely pleased to hear she was arriving for tea that afternoon. A small party of ladies was much easier to digest than the large societal functions normally foisted on her. Besides, Alana hardly qualified as a condescending society member, having caused a few scandals in her own right.

“Perhaps we can take a stroll about the gardens after breakfast.” Miss Clemens spoke from Sam’s left. She, too, found the splendor of the gardens enchanting. Sam discovered her meandering dreamily through the flowers on several occasions over the past few days.

“I think that would be a lovely idea,” Wilhelmina replied, placing a silencing hand on Edward’s arm.

“What would be a lovely idea?” Mr. Reid asked as he seated himself in front of an overflowing platter of food.

“I’m surprised at your tardiness this morning, Mr. Reid.” Sam grinned at him. “Typically, you are the first to arrive when any type of refreshment is offered.”

“I was unexpectedly delayed,” he replied but didn’t elaborate, then took a large bite of bacon, chewing slowly.

“The ladies are planning an intimate luncheon this afternoon. Would you prefer to accompany me on an errand?” Edward asked, sharing a meaningful glance with Wilhelmina. Sam wondered if Edward’s unexpected engagement was motivated by Mr. Reid’s disastrous relationship with Alana.

“Most definitely.” Mr. Reid gulped down a cup of coffee. “Will we be leaving shortly?”

Edward nodded, rising from the table. “I will meet you in the stables in five minutes.”

“Shall we save you some sandwiches?” Lady Westwood asked with a knowing wink at her son. He chuckled.

“That would be most appreciated, Mother.” Mr. Reid grabbed several pieces of toast, swallowed the last of his coffee, and departed, flashing his lopsided smile.

Lady Westwood waved to her son, then returned her attention to Aunt Abigail. They bent their heads together, their whispered voices a mere hum at the table. Sam’s eyes narrowed—they were plotting something.

Finishing her meal swiftly, Sam rose with Miss Clemens, who seemed grateful for the excuse to retreat from the dining room. Arms linked, they strolled through the gardens toward the gazebo, choosing a path that ran the length of the flower beds. As they sauntered down the walkway, Miss Clemens paused unexpectedly and spun toward the house.

“My room is right there.

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